All foreign workers in Thailand will be required to submit work permit applications online

The Ministry of Labour announced that starting October 13, 2025, all foreign worker registrations and work permit applications in Thailand must be submitted through a new online platform called e-Work Permit. This system will replace most paper-based submissions and enable employers and foreign employees to handle the entire process digitally.

The platform allows users to apply, upload documents, track application status and receive approvals online, without having to visit government offices. It is available at eworkpermit.doe.go.th. According to the Ministry, the system will cut down on paperwork, speed up processing times and increase transparency through an integrated national database.

Employers, foreign workers and licensed recruitment agencies must register on the system before submitting applications. Recruitment companies can verify their identities starting October 6, while employers and foreign workers can begin applying from October 13. Company directors or authorized persons must complete identity verification through the ThaiID mobile app to access the platform.

After registration, applicants can complete the process online, pay fees and schedule appointments at one of more than 40 Foreign Work Permit Service Centers or 54 Department of Employment centers across the country. During these visits, biometric data, such as facial, iris and fingerprint scans, will be collected, and work permit cards issued. The Ministry estimates these on-site steps will take about 12 minutes.

The new e-Work Permit initiative aims to modernize labor administration and support businesses that employ foreign nationals. While the new system will be mandatory, officials said manual submissions may still be temporarily accepted during the transition.

For assistance, employers and workers can contact the Ministry of Labour hotlines at 1506 (press 2) or 1694.